The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of 14 individuals linked to a protest that occurred on Sunday in Makurdi, the capital city of Benue State. Authorities explained that the demonstration, which initially started at the Wurukum Roundabout, was aimed at raising concerns over the increasing rate of insecurity across the state. However, the protest was reportedly taken over by miscreants who attempted to cause unrest and disrupt public order. According to the Benue State Police Command, tensions escalated when the protesters refused to listen to an appeal from the Deputy Governor, Barr. John Ode, and the Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, who had arrived at the location to address the crowd and plead for calm. A press release from DSP Udeme Edet, the spokesperson of the Command, revealed that officers were compelled to use non-lethal methods to manage the chaos. These included water cannons and smoke dispersal units, which helped neutralize the aggressive faction of the protest while ensuring the safe evacuation of the Deputy Governor. “No injuries or fatalities were reported throughout the police intervention,” the official statement confirmed. Later the same day, a separate act of violence was reported at Apir, a community on the outskirts of Makurdi. Alleged supporters of the earlier protest reportedly blocked a major road, intercepted a truck, and set it ablaze while the driver was still inside. The identity of the truck driver has not been established at the time of this report. Police confirmed that a total of 14 individuals were apprehended in relation to these violent episodes and will be formally charged. Investigations are still ongoing to identify additional perpetrators involved in the arson and disruption. The statement concluded with a firm position from the police: “The Benue State Police Command acknowledges the right to peaceful protest but will not condone any act of violence, property damage, or threat to public safety.”
Benue Community Attack: Governor Alia Condemns Assault, Pledges Justice At least 11 people lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries after suspected armed herdsmen launched a violent attack on the Mbagena community in Mchihe Council Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State. Attack on Mbagena Community Leaves Devastation Eyewitness reports indicate that the armed group not only killed residents but also set houses ablaze and looted food barns, leaving the village in turmoil. A local resident recounted that the assailants initially struck on Friday night but returned on Saturday evening around 7 p.m. in greater numbers, wreaking havoc on the community. “They arrived in large numbers, shooting indiscriminately. Many people were killed, houses were torched, and food supplies were destroyed,” the source disclosed. By Sunday morning, 11 bodies had been recovered, while multiple residents were still unaccounted for. The injured victims are currently receiving medical care in Katsina-Ala Town. Local Authorities Condemn the Attack The Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Mr. Justin Shaku, confirmed the attack, describing it as an unjustified act of violence. “The attack happened between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Saturday. Sadly, 11 individuals lost their lives, while seven others with severe injuries are being treated in undisclosed hospitals,” he stated. Mr. Shaku, alongside a House of Representatives member representing the Sankera axis, visited the affected community to assist in funeral arrangements and support bereaved families. Mzough U Tiv (MUT) Worldwide President General, Chief Iorbee Ihagh, strongly denounced the assault and urged security agencies to deploy personnel to prevent further bloodshed in the area. Governor Alia Assures Justice, Calls for Vigilance Reacting to the tragic event, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the affected families. He also condemned the senseless killings and destruction of property. “This level of brutality is unacceptable and will not go unpunished,” Governor Alia asserted. He reassured the public that law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the incident, and perpetrators will be brought to justice. Security forces have already been deployed to restore peace in the region. “We are coordinating closely with local security forces and community leaders to ensure our citizens live without fear of such attacks,” he added. Governor Alia also urged residents to remain watchful and promptly report any suspicious activities to the authorities, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to securing lives and property. “Together, we will confront these challenges and reinforce our commitment to a safer Benue,” he emphasized. Security Agencies Yet to Issue Official Statement As of the time of reporting, efforts to obtain an official statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful. Click here to read more about security challenges in Nigeria READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
